One of our 'pilgrimages' to John's home town

The town is so depressing.  So many people on the streets seem to be addicts, very sick and frail and the poverty is evident- it makes Newham and Barking look like Mayfair.   the growth industries seem to be tattoo parlours, betting shops, pubs almost like shacks, fast food and then charity shops and second hand mobility scooters.  There are loads of adverts for gastric band surgery or help with mental health 'issues'.  We could only take Katelin to the park- where the longed for ride on the motor boat was not possible because the council were draining the park lake.  Just in time for the start of the school holidays